1996 Audi A3 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 185 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2008 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 151 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 95.5 mm |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1325 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |